5 Great Ways to Save on Moving Costs

Moving or relocating can be one of the most stressful times in your life. But having a solid plan in place can help make your move worry-free. Here are six great ways to save money, time and, most importantly, your sanity when moving or planning a relocation.

Plan early, plan oftenEvery hour you put into planning upfront, will save you time and headaches once the moving starts. So once you know you’re moving let the planning begin!

Using a professional mover? It’s never too early to request an in-home estimate, 6-8 weeks in advance of the move (especially during the summer months) is suggested to help save money and secure the move date of your choice.

First things, first: create a master moving list. It doesn’t have to be beautiful; it just has to be handy and portable, so you can jot down anything that comes to mind about your relocation. Consider using your smartphone or keeping a small notebook with you at all times. You’ll have plenty of things to jot down, and here are a few to get you started:

Pick up a change of address kit from your local post office, or visit the Post Office online.

Take photos of your computer and home entertainment systems, so you’ll remember how the wires were connected.

Vacuum seal your linens, and heavy or off-season clothing to make them easier to pack.

For local moves, if you have children or pets, think about lining up a sitter.

Clean those bigger items before you pack (curtains, rugs, etc.).

Flex and saveBeing flexible on pick-up and delivery dates can definitely impact your costs. If your move or relocation isn’t hemmed in by a fixed timetable, your moving company can often save you money. Monday and Friday moves can be more expensive than mid-week, ask your mover for suggestions.

Damage ControlYou might be tempted to skimp on professional packing supplies, but what you spend up front can be outweighed by replacement costs. So be sure to use sturdy boxes, lots of bubble wrap and quality packing tape.

Also, you should pack your boxes not based on where you live now, but where you are moving and relocating to. So visualize your new place before you start packing, and think about which things will naturally go together.

A few other quick packing tips:

Pack your most essential items in a clear container so they are easy to locate.

Cover liquids and toiletries in saran wrap to contain leakages.

Number and color-code your boxes based on rooms for easy inventory.

Pack no more than 50lbs per box.

Do good with your goodsDon’t resist your urge to purge. There is no better time to take inventory of what you really need. A few weeks before your scheduled relocation, donate unwanted possessions to a worthy cause to save money through tax deductions (be sure to keep your receipts!) or have a garage sale to bring in some extra money.

Relocation can mean replacingJust as donating or selling your extra possessions can help your finances, replacing your larger household goods and appliances might be more cost effective than moving them. With what you save by selling or donating, and what you save in moving costs, replacement could be a smart decision, and could also be a good time to upgrade the sofa or finally get that dream refrigerator.